Who sells luxury cars for thousands less than any dealer? Who
offers boats, planes, houses and jewelry for unbelievable prices?

The government, that's who.

Each year, millions of dollars in possessions are seized, repossessed or
ordered in surplus by the U.S. government. Fortunately, the law requires the government to offer these items
to the public. Auction shoppers can find everything from household tools to luxury
items previously owned by drug dealers.

While some auctions are making their way onto the Internet, it is
still necessary to attend most events in person. The Web offers many ways to research auctions and their intricacies.

FedSales is the official government portal for asset sales. Subscribe to a free mailing list to receive auction updates and news. The site lists financial assets, real property and personal property that is for sale by the federal government. You'll also find links to state seized-property agencies.

Some surplus government items are for sale at GSA Auctions. The auctions are conducted entirely online. Assets for sale include personal property, scientific equipment and heavy machinery.

The Office of Property Disposal is a directory of surplus real property owned by the federal government. While some of the property is sold to state and local governments, individuals can purchase some property through auctions. Online auctions are available for some regions.

New notices of proposed government procurement actions, contract awards and
sales of government property are available from Commerce Business Daily.

Department of Treasury
Check the schedule of upcoming seized-property auctions and request to be notified of future auctions in your area.

IRS
The Internal Revenue Service sells property seized for nonpayment of income taxes. Browse the list of items for sale, which include vehicles and real estate.

Department of Defense
The Defense Reutilization and Marketing Service
sells overstocked and unneeded military resources to the general public
through auctions, bids and negotiated sales. It is the first place to look
for military surplus goods.

FDIC
The FDIC owns assets, including homes, which it sells to the public. Browse the Real Estate Sales listings, which include bargain properties that are sold as is.

HUD
Make your dream of owning a home come true with HUD Homes. These houses are sold at reduced prices through authorized real estate brokers.

Small Business Administration
In the process of granting loans, the SBA acquires real estate, machinery, furniture and other items. Search the
Property for Sale database or contact your local SBA office to make a purchase.

Bureau of Land Management
The federal government occasionally sells public land that it deems suitable for private ownership. The majority of undeveloped land for sale is available in the western states. Contact your state BLM office to find out what is available.